Billions Spent – Veterans Still Unaware

Tom Philpott, who has been breaking news for and about military personnel since 1977, recently reported testimony from a senior Defense official and veteran advocate that despite billions of additional dollars pumped into veterans’ benefits in recent years, many military personnel still leave service unaware of their VA benefits or of programs set up to help them transition to civilian life.

Noel C. Koch, deputy under secretary of defense for wounded warrior care and transition policy, communication “seems to be the entire issue,” Koch explained. Despite a lot of work being done to address this gap, the government fails to communicate effectively with departing members, particularly younger ones.

The military has recently eased its restrictions on social media as a way to help get the word out and the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program was started modestly after the Persian Gulf War.

Last year the BDD helped 51,000 separating members get a comprehensive medical examination and apply for VA disability benefits before leaving service. The program is offered 60 to 180 days before discharge. Details are online at: BDD
Also check with your state Department of Veteran Affairs – chances are, if you are a veteran, you qualify for some benefits.